Consensus statement from a group of European experts on the use of PRP for treating knee osteoarthritis
PRP is a valuable treatment option for people with mild to moderate knee pain
and may be a good first-line treatment for non-operative management
Keywords: knee osteoarthritis, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), orthobiologics, knee pain
Analysis: This article represents a significant step forward in standardizing the use of PRP for knee OA in Europe. The consensus, involving 75 experts, was achieved using a rigorous Delphi methodology, ensuring a high level of agreement and reliability. The document highlights the need for a balanced approach, acknowledging both the potential benefits and limitations of PRP. It also emphasizes the crucial role of patient education and informed consent in the decision-making process
The consensus statement provides a clear framework for clinical practice, offering specific recommendations on PRP application, including contraindications, appropriate age range, and injection protocols. While acknowledging that further research is needed to address the remaining knowledge gaps, the authors successfully highlight the key findings based on current evidence, emphasizing PRP's potential as a viable non-operative treatment option for knee OA, particularly in mild to moderate cases. Notably, the consensus supports the use of PRP over hyaluronic acid and corticosteroid injections, citing the longer duration of effect and a safer profile for PRP.
The consensus document contributes to establishing a standardized approach for managing knee OA, promoting consistent care for patients and encouraging further research in the field. It serves as a valuable resource for clinicians seeking to make informed decisions about PRP treatment for their patients with knee OA
